KIRKBYMOORSIDE Golf Club have emerged as champions following a nine-match series of winter league golf.

Beating off fierce competition from the likes of Malton, Scarborough's North and South Cliff, Filey, Whitby, Driffield and Beverley, the Manor Vale club secured the prestigious Scarborough and District Golf Association pennant in their final game at Bridlington.

The day's top pairing of Chic Nicholson and Andy Crawford, together with professional John Hinchliffe and Roy Brown, led the team home in style with nett 66s.

Captain Brian Carroll was delighted for his 20-man squad, who secured the trophy for the first time in some 25 years.

He said: "Team spirit, consistent pairings and a competitive approach have been our main assets this year, but much credit must also go to our excellent green staff at Kirkbymoorside.

"The course, particularly the greens, has improved dramatically and all team members have practised hard and performed magnificently as a result.

"While winning competitions is very important to club morale and its standing in the region, the continuation of a warm, welcoming atmosphere will remain a central plank of our future aims."

Members of the successful team are pictured above celebrating their success at the Sun Inn, Pickering.

Back, from left: Ken Scott, Andy Holmes, John Spanton, Andy Crawford, Roy Brown, Chris Farey, Neil Williamson, Chic Nicholson, Terry Hornby.

Front: Ian Brown, Geoff Eyre, Mike Shields (president), Brian Carroll (captain), Chris Pickles (vice-captain).

Absentees from the celebration: Phil Fisher, Nigel Richardson, Pete Stead, Colin Westwood and John Hinchliffe (pro).